Passport Application - Getting A Passport Is Easy

Traveling Overseas

If you want to travel overseas, then you need to have a valid US passport to do it. In order to get a US passport, you need to complete a pass port application correctly and submit it to the passport issuing authority. The process may seem intimidating, but if done accurately, there is rarely a problem with receiving your passport.

The first thing you need to do in your quest for a passport is to visit a post office and pick up an application form. Alternatively, you can download the application from the Internet and print it out. If you do print it, you need to do so in black ink on white matte paper. The dimensions of the paper that you use must be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches. Glossy paper, other colors or different sized paper will not be accepted by the office.

Citizenship

In order to be awarded a U S passport, you will need to provide proof of US citizenship. Acceptable forms of proof according to US government regulations include a certified US birth certificate, a naturalization certificate or US citizenship certificate. You may also be requested to prove your identity with a US passport, driver's license or some form of state or federal identification.

An important part of the application are the passport photos. These are one of the main reasons that passport applications are rejected, so be sure to have yours done correctly. The regulations regarding passport photos state that no headwear or eyewear can be worn in the photo, civilian clothes must be worn (no uniforms), you must be looking straight at the camera and there are specifications about the lighting and sizing of the photos. It is best to have the photos done at a store that specializes in this sort of thing.

The passport issuing office in the United States works under a heavy load of applications and while they endeavor to have the passports issued quickly, there can be delays. For this reason it is best to apply for your passport with anticipation and the office suggests that you apply around 12 weeks prior to your travel arrangements. For an extra fee you can arrange to have your passport application assessed more quickly.

Once you have presented your passport application, you are able to track its progress online through the state department's website. However, before handing in your application ensure that all facts, details, payments and photos are exactly right. If there are errors on the forms, then the application will be rejected. Once you have your passport, it is valid for ten years.

Costs

Costs involved in getting your passport are as follows: adults $100, children $85 and the fee for an expedited passport is an extra $60. If you are applying for your first US passport, then you cannot mail the forms but need to present them in person as well as filling out form DS-11.

If you are careful about filling in the correct information on your application, attaching correct passport photos and you pay the correct fee, then you will not have trouble getting your US passport. The new passport issuing body estimates that around 10 percent of applicants make errors on their forms, which slows down the process considerably.